I get it. You’re thinking about a PRN nursing position but worried about venturing into rural communities. You’re not the only one. Isolation, lack of resources, and limited career advancement are some common concerns that might hold nurses back from exploring these opportunities. However, the reality of PRN nursing in rural communities paints a much more positive picture!
Get ready to discover a world where flexibility meets competitive pay, and where you can make a real difference in a close-knit community.
Table of Contents
Debunking The Myths of Nursing in Rural Communities
Myth #1: Isolation and Lack of Resources
When people think about rural healthcare facilities, images of remote hospitals with limited equipment and little to no access to specialists are probably what come to mind. But in reality, this couldn’t be more untrue.
Since technology has advanced so far, rural communities are no longer isolated from the rest of the world. Telemedicine is rapidly changing the game, allowing nurses to virtually consult with specialists located anywhere in the country. This ensures patients receive the best possible care, regardless of their location. Additionally, many rural hospitals are part of larger healthcare networks that provide shared resources and support systems, giving nurses access to the tools they need to deliver excellent care.
Myth #2: Nursing Jobs in Rural Communities Are Dead-End Jobs and Offer Limited Growth
A lot of nurses think PRN nursing in rural communities is a dead end. In reality, it’s one of the best ways nurses can make the most money. Rural healthcare communities are always short on nurse staff, and because of this, they will pay top dollar for the right nurse to come and help them. Rural healthcare facilities are often part of larger healthcare networks. Nurses who start off working PRN in rural communities oftentimes use their connections to transfer to larger facilities that are a part of the same network.
Myth #3: No Growth or Development for Rural Nurses
Rural communities offer nurses who work PRN jobs more growth opportunities. Since their staffing sizes are smaller, rural communities rely on nurses to have a diverse skill set. Rural communities tend to invest in the nurses who invest in them. Instead of hiring a new nurse with the qualifications they need, they will invest their time and money into their current staff.
The Reality of PRN Nursing in Rural Communities
PRN nursing in rural communities has a lot of perks. From making more money to having more growth opportunities, rural communities are a hidden gem for any nurse looking for work PRN.
Flexibility You Crave: PRN positions offer the ultimate control over your schedule. You choose the shifts that work for you, allowing you to achieve a healthy work-life balance or pursue further education. Rural healthcare communities almost always have extra shifts available, so you’ll make extra money with way less competition.
Competitive Pay to Match Your Skills: Rural facilities understand the value of experienced nurses and are willing to offer competitive compensation packages to attract and retain staff. The demand for qualified nurses in these areas can translate to excellent pay for your expertise.
Growth Opportunities Beyond Expectation: The perception of rural healthcare as a career dead-end is simply outdated. Many facilities prioritize ongoing professional development for their nurses. They offer financial assistance for continuing education courses, conferences, and certifications relevant to rural healthcare needs. This not only benefits patient care but strengthens your resume and opens doors for future career advancement, both within the rural healthcare system and elsewhere.
The Importance of Nursing in Rural Communities
Rural communities have less access to specialists when compared to urban areas. Nurses in rural communities take on a broader role and provide care for a wider range of conditions. For most residents, nurses can be one of the first people they see for medical attention. Nurses have always been a vital entry point in healthcare.
Rural nurses often live within the communities they serve, they can build stronger relationships with their patients and understand their problems on a more personal level. They can use factors like social factors and general health concerns to better treat all of their patients. Rural areas tend to have higher rates of chronic conditions. Nurses can help provide preventative treatment, promote healthy habits, and offer ways to manage each condition.
Without nurses, more rural hospitals will close, and rural communities will suffer from a lack of readily available healthcare. Rural hospitals are incredibly important to these communities. They serve as the only way a lot of the United States receive healthcare. If rural facilities close the people living within the community will have to drive hours for care, and have no option for an emergency.
